Is it true cats hide when they know they are dying?

I had a dog that did this. She was very old and could barely move. She some how managed to get out off her leash and she ran away and died. Unfortunatley we never found her body. I hope this doesn't happen to you. I am so sorry.

I am sorry you are going through this. Its terribly hard. Every cat and dog I have had has done this prior to death. Some have even hidden in the house and when we located them they had passed away. I feel its one way they protect us from dealing with the pain of their death as well.I think most animals go away when its "their time to leave". If you pet has never left and has been gone for a few days and if you have checked all the shelters, rescues, vets, papers etc. I would feel safe in assuming she is gone. I am so sorry for you. My vet helped my by saying... "the greatest thing is knowing you loved pet is at peace and out of pain" so hopefully that will help you. Know my heart is with you. Keeping you in thought.

i think that may have some truth to it we had several cats in the past that were sick or old they were always around but took off to die some where alone

I don't want to upset you by answering this, but I have had 2 cats that wandered off to die. We knew it was near the end for them. I also have a senile older cat, that I am sure if let outside would wander and forget how to get home. I know it is hard t think about but i hope for your sake she comes home one last time.

I have had a 3 year old cat and a 11 year old dog die in the last 10 weeks. The cat was indoor only & kept trying to hide the days leading up to his death. The dog went in the far corner of the yard and was hiding behind a bush the day before he died.

I think they know they are dying and their instincts tell them to hide/protect themselves from others.